Front of House General Assistant / Barista - Newbury, Berkshire

Houston & Hawkes is looking for an experienced Front of House General Assistant / Barista to join our team at an exciting site in Newbury. This is a varied, guest-facing role for someone who loves great service, knows how to make excellent coffee and enjoys being part of a professional catering team. You'll be part of the daily front-of-house service, preparing quality coffees, welcoming guests, supporting breakfast and lunch service and ensuring everything is beautifully presented, fully stocked and ready throughout the day. We're looking for someone with personality, confidence and a genuine pride in creating a great experience for every guest. THE ROLE

• Prepare and serve consistently high-quality espresso-based drinks and speciality coffees
• Deliver warm, friendly and professional service throughout the day
• Support breakfast and lunch service across the front-of-house operation
• Serve food and beverages with excellent presentation and attention to detail
• Keep counters, displays and service areas fully stocked, organised and inviting
• Maintain the coffee station, machine and equipment to an excellent standard
• Support hospitality and meeting room service when required
• Replenish food, beverages, crockery and service items throughout the day
• Work closely with the kitchen and wider front-of-house team to ensure smooth service
• Keep all guest-facing areas clean, polished and beautifully presented
• Follow excellent food safety, allergen, hygiene and health and safety standards
  
  Previous experience as a Barista, General Assistant or Front of House Assistant
• Good barista skills with confidence preparing espresso-based coffees and texturing milk
• A genuine passion for great coffee and excellent customer service
• A warm, engaging personality and professional approach
• Excellent attention to detail and pride in presentation
• The ability to work efficiently and maintain high standards during busy service
• A positive, hands-on attitude and willingness to support different areas of the operation
• Good communication skills and a strong team mentality
• Contract catering or premium hospitality experience would be an advantage
  
  A varied role combining coffee, food service and hospitality
• Birthday off every year
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave
• Free meals on duty
• Contributory pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• CODE Hospitality membership
• Ongoing learning, development and genuine career progression
• Summer Awards Party celebrating our people and achievements
• An unforgettable Christmas Party at one of London's outstanding venues
ABOUT HOUSTON & HAWKES Houston & Hawkes is an award-winning independent caterer creating vibrant, creative and exceptional food and hospitality experiences across some of the UK's most prestigious client sites. We're a Certified B Corp, recipient of the King's Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development 2026 and proud to be ranked No. 14 in The Caterer's Best Places to Work in Hospitality.